April 6, 2007

Good Friday. The day Christians remember Jesus’ death. I’ll attend a community service today in remembrance of this sacrifice.

Earlier this week I was talking with a friend about my appointments and this service and he asked, “Why ‘Good’ Friday?”

I realized I didn’t know how the adjective ‘good’ became associated with the day that Jesus died. My bias has long been to refer to this weekend as Crucifixion Friday, Sabbath and Resurrection Sunday. I went looking for the meaning and history of the common title.

One source speculated that the etymology is old English “Godes Friday” or God’s Friday. Like other old English phrases, (like goodbye which is shortened from God be with ye) it was shortened to become Good Friday.

I like thinking of today as God’s Friday. Jesus’ death, like nothing else, revealed the character of God. Our identity, our future is tied to this great act of grace. For many, this day is consumed with meditation on suffering. I believe this clouds what God did for us.
The miracle of His love is not measured by the pain He endured. His love is measured today by how He is mirrored in you.

“ Dear brothers and sisters, we always thank God for you, as is right, for we are thankful that your faith is flourishing and you are all growing in love for each other. We proudly tell God’s other churches about your endurance and faithfulness in all the persecutions and hardships you are suffering.” 2 Thessalonians 1:3-4

Rejoicing in hope,
Pastor Steve